The Catholic Bishop of Abakiliki Diocese, Most Rev Fr. Peter Nworie Chukwu has explained why he turned down an award by the Ebonyi State Governor, Chief David Umahi.
In a letter sited by Daily Sentinel, dated December 12, 2022, and signed by him personally, Umahi expressed his pleasure to notify the Bishop that he would be awarded Commander, Ebonyi Hall of Fame in a ceremony scheduled for December 22, 2022.
The letter with reference number GOV/EBS/OM/3.42/V/350, read:
“I am pleased to inform you that you have been selected by the government of Ebonyi State for the conferment of State Honours Award as Commander, Ebonyi Hall of Fame (CEHF), pursuant to Ebonyi State Honours Law No 008 of 2022. This Award of Honour is in recognition of your illustrious service to Ebonyi State and humanity.
“Congratulations and please accept always, the assurances of the esteemed regards and best wishes of the government and people of Ebonyi State”.
Bishop Chukwu’s response, also sited by Daily Sentinel, was dated December 16, 2022:
“Re-Notification of Your selection for the Maiden State of Honours Award 2022 As Commander Ebonyi State Hall of Fame (CEHF).
“I write to acknowledge the receipt of your letter notifying me that I have been selected for the maiden state Honours Award.
“I am pleasantly surprised that I was selected for such a prestigious honour by your government.
“Your Excellency, I wish to respectfully decline the award. I am barely one year in office. I am struggling to fit into the high demands of the ecclesiastical of the Bishop. So, I feel that I have not achieved much as to deserve an award.
“If I may suggest, I would rather wish that this award be bestowed on my predecessor, Most Rev Michael Nnachi Okoro, for his long and meritorious service to God and humanity.
“Rather than give me an award, I would prefer you set in motion, actions that would facilitate the termination of murder charge and sundry charges against my priest, Rev Fr Timothy Ngwuta.”
